Faulty Cockpit Communication as a Factor in the Failure of Flight 90

Through transcript analysis of Air Florida's flight 90 it was determined the crash might have been prevented if proper flight deck procedures had been followed. This paper examines various facets that come into play when cockpit communications break down or become inefficient for the task at hand. Aspects dealt with include: casualness on the flight deck; lack of decisive command; improper implementation of problem solving strategies; and the concept of role differentiation, specifically as it relates to the captain acting as copilot when the first officer is handling the controls. Complacency as a result of cockpit automation, and diminishing vigilance due to technological advances are considered as problem areas. The increase in safety and reduction of operational complexity, as a result of technological innovations, is offered as a potential area of concern for flight crew alertness. A conclusion drawn from research indicates the need exists for more effective crew training in the area of group interaction and within cockpit communication.